I flew home this weekend to watch the Super Bowl with my dad. Watching the Super Bowl with my dad is one of my favorite things to do because he can pretty much tell me everything about anything. We had all of our hopes in the Niners for the big win, and I was planning on using this Monday to write about how great it is to live in the Bay Area this year. But, the Ravens surprised everyone with a huge upset, and in the end, Baltimore came out on top. There is a lot to say about the game, and the NFL in general right now – from the concussion lawsuit, to steroid use (ahem, Ray Lewis’ miraculous comeback from a serious injury). But instead of focusing on all the things that all the sports writers will focus on this week, I thought I’d focus on a girl that loves sports. And that girl is me!
As the first of four daughters of a sports fanatic father, I was bound to have a life filled with sports. From very early on I was competitive in soccer, softball, basketball, and even golf. Along with this, my mother helped make me more well rounded with jazz, tap, and ballet classes throughout the weekdays. But my weekends were completely devoted to winning. Many of my favorite childhood memories were from running around the softball fields as my mom worked the snack bar and my dad umpired. I was tall and strong and played first base while batting fourth.
When I wasn’t playing I was watching the action on TV. The 90’s brought special times for California with the Lakers, Dodgers, Niners, Trojans and of course the LA Rams and Raiders. When the 21st century hit, my cousin began to play professional baseball and the excitement for my family hit an all-time high. Watching your own family play professional sports for a decade, and make it to the World Series, is a thrill of a lifetime.
One of my dreams in life was to attend a Pac-10 (12) school so I could sit in the student section of a fine college football team. When I went to Biola, I thought that dream was over. But God had bigger plans and brought me to Cal. There is nothing better than cheering for your schools football team. And if cheering on the Golden Bears wasn’t enough, moving to the Bay Area in 2011 turned out to be a great adventure as I have been able to watch the Giants and Niners play so well. Thank you, SF, for letting me jump on your bandwagon for these past two years… I don’t think I can ever go back (I love the Bay!).
Sports for me have not only shaped who I am today, but they are currently still bringing me so much joy. It doesn’t get much better than watching a baseball game on a beautiful sunny day, sitting with your dad and grandpa while watching your favorite college football team, or placing your bets during March Madness. Playing sports keeps you active, healthy, and provides you with great social skills. Watching sports brings you an escape from outside stressors, and a reason to gather with friends and family.
Happy Monday everyone – I hope the Lord brings you a great week. To all the Ravens fans – congrats on your huge win. And to my fellow 49ers fans – you have my most sincere condolences.
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